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World number 19 Daria Kasatkina has declared she is at her "breaking point" and chose to end her competitive year ahead of schedule, characterizing the demanding schedule as "too much, mentally and emotionally."

The 28-year-old changed her nationality from the Russian Federation to Australia in March, after public criticism regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ laws and the war in the Ukrainian region.

She struggled with consistency throughout the season, failing to secure a title and concluding with a win-loss tally of 19 wins and 21 losses.

The athlete linked the mental strain from her change of citizenship as a major contributor to her difficulties, which included not seeing her father for several years.

She expressed in a lengthy statement: "I've been not okay for quite a while and, honestly speaking, my on-court showings reflect that."

"I am at breaking point and sadly I am in the same boat as others," she added.

"Add in the mix the psychological pressure related to my citizenship change and I can only handle so much I can manage and take as an individual woman."

"If this makes me weak, then I accept it, I am not strong enough," she stated.

"Nonetheless, I believe I am resilient and will grow stronger by being away and recharging."

"The moment has come I heeded my own needs for a change."

Other Players Similarly Halting Their Years Prematurely

Former top-five players Elina Svitolina and Badosa have also ended their campaigns ahead of time in recent weeks.

Ukraine's Svitolina stated she had "not felt like myself", while the Spanish player has spoken about the psychological impact of an persistent spinal issue.

Other players have also spoken about the effect of the tennis calendar.

A quintet of competitors retired due to injury in a pair of events in China last week, with six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek saying the competitive year is "too long and intense."

WTA Regulations and Athlete Concerns

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has made it mandatory for elite athletes to participate in every Grand Slam, ten premier events and six 500-level tournaments.

The bulk of premier tournaments on the women's and men's circuits last a fortnight, as do all four major championships.

Competitors may miss required tournaments if they are hurt or have private matters, but they will not get any rankings points or financial rewards if they do not play.

Ex-top ranked player Djokovic, who has reduced his schedule in lately to preserve his health, has called on fellow professionals to be more united in forcing change.